Chapter 20 Summary

As the summer winds down, the young woman is very familiar with Dunnet Landing and explores the paths and trails regularly. One day as she walks along the shoreline an old ship called the Miranda catches her eye and she pauses to study the lines and strength of the sailing vessel. Soon a gruff voice breaks the young woman's reverie and she looks up to find the figure of Elijah Tilley and is delighted to have the chance to speak to this seasoned fisherman for the first time since her arrival in June.

At first the young woman senses that Elijah is the type of person who is so suspicious of others that others cannot help but be suspicious of their own selves. The young woman engages Elijah in conversation about the ship and today's fishing and eventually the two become friendly. The...